Scammers ‘help’ add consumers to Do Not Call Registry - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

Scammers ‘help’ add consumers to Do Not Call Registry

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By WLBT Staff - email
The registry "official" asks for personal information, such as your name, address and Social Security number. The registry "official" asks for personal information, such as your name, address and Social Security number.
JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -

It's not often that receiving a phone call from a telemarketer is a welcomed event. So, scammers are now claiming to be with the Do Not Call Registry saying they will help remove your phone number from marketing lists. 

Scammers have been making phone calls posing as representatives of the National Do Not Call Registry. The calls typically offer one of two ways to help: the scammer offers an opportunity to sign up for the DNC registry, or the caller will ask consumers to verify their personal information.

Of course, the callers are really trying to solicit personal information, which opens victims up to identity fraud.

Here's how the seemingly helpful scam works: Someone calls you claiming to represent the National Do Not Call Registry, the FTC or Canada's National Do Not Call List. The registry "official" asks for personal information, such as your name, address and Social Security number.

The Better Business Bureau reports that the scam has several variations. In one, the caller wants to verify that you are on the National Do Not Call Registry. In another, he claims to give you a chance to register your phone number.

Just hang up the phone, BBB officials warn.

"This situation is always a scam. Representatives from the registry will not call you. And sharing personal information with the caller will just put you at risk for identity theft," reads a warning from the BBB website. 

Here are some simple tips on how to Protect yourself from scam calls from the BBB:

  • Don't share your personal information if someone calls you claiming to represent the National Do Not Call Registry or even the FTC itself.
  • Do not call the scammers back.
  • Remember that your participation in the National Do Not Call Registry does not expire. Do not listen to claims otherwise.
  • If you want to add your number to the Do Not Call Registry, go to Donotcall.gov or call 888-382-1222 from the phone you wish to register. If you want to verify your number, use this feature on the registry's website.
  • Canadians have their own National Do Not Call List. Register for that here.

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